Laser Resurfacing in Los Altos, CA

At Mittelman Plastic Surgery in Los Altos, board-certified facial plastic surgeon Harry Mittelman, MD, offers a variety of non-surgical laser resurfacing treatments to bring more youthful, radiant skin to the men and women of San Jose, Palo Alto and the surrounding areas of California.

What is Laser Resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing is one of the most popular and non-invasive cosmetic procedures that can undo sun damage, reverse signs of aging and improve other skin imperfections. At Mittelman Plastic Surgery, we use some of the latest laser techniques available to remove the damaged outer layers of skin and promote the growth of collagen and new skin cells in the underlying layers, revealing healthier, younger-looking skin. Nearly any area of the skin that shows damage or signs of aging can be treated with laser resurfacing, and by using the latest laser technologies, we make laser resurfacing convenient, relatively painless and highly effective for our patients.

Who is a Good Candidate for Laser Resurfacing?

Human skin ages in three ways. Most patients understand how gravity ages the body and how repetitive muscle movements can lead to crow’s feet or frown lines over time. Yet, most patients don’t consider the role skin itself plays in the aging process. Skin is like a canvas. If the canvas is damaged, the work that’s painted over it will be compromised, regardless of how beautiful or flawlessly executed. Damaged skin contributes to the aging process and detracts from the work of even the most skillful cosmetic surgeon. For instance, if a patient with aged and damaged skin undergoes a facelift procedure to restore the firmness and contours of youth, the outcome will likely be unnatural in appearance.

Laser resurfacing is the best approach to rejuvenating aging skin because gentler treatments, such as microdermabrasion and chemical peels, don’t deliver the consistent and dramatic results that lasers provide. Anyone who experiences unwanted changes in their skin due to environmental factors such as sun or wind damage and dryness is also a good candidate for laser resurfacing. These changes may appear as sunspots or hyperpigmented age spots, broken veins, and mild, moderate or mature wrinkles. While wrinkles can form anywhere on the face, environmental factors often cause wrinkles around the mouth. Although wrinkles around the mouth, especially the upper lip, are often referred to as “smoker’s lines”, non-smokers can also suffer from this skin imperfection.

What is Ablative Laser Resurfacing?

Ablative lasers are the most aggressive of all laser resurfacing technologies, but they also provide the most dramatic results. Ablative lasers treat visible signs of aging by vaporizing the outermost layers of the skin and increasing once plentiful collagen in aging skin. Your skin will be red and swollen following this procedure, and a significant downtime is usually required.

What is Nonablative Laser Resurfacing?

Nonablative lasers are far less aggressive than ablative laser treatments. Nonablative lasers remove damaged skin cells and stimulate collagen production by heating up the skin tissues in the target area without damaging or destroying the overlying skin. Because nonablative lasers resurface the skin in a non-invasive manner, almost no downtime is required following treatment. However, multiple treatment sessions are often required to achieve the patient’s desired outcome.

What is Fractional Laser Resurfacing?

During fractional laser resurfacing, the laser beam is broken up into hundreds of smaller laser beams or fractions. Unlike older forms of laser resurfacing, fractional resurfacing creates tiny injuries beneath the skin’s surface and leaves other areas of the skin intact. As collagen production increases, the skin contracts and tightens by connecting the fractionated injuries. Fractional resurfacing procedures can be either ablative or nonablative, and both options can deliver dramatic results.

What is the Cost for Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatments in San Jose?

The costs for laser skin resurfacing treatments vary as they are dependent on the treatment desired and what is involved in achieving the look you have in mind. During your initial consultation, we will discuss the best options for you along with the cost involved in these treatments.

Harry Mittelman, MD, is recognized as a pioneer in facial plastic surgery. As a board-certified facial plastic surgeon, specializing in both surgical and non-surgical or non-invasive cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery procedures, Dr. Mittelman provides his patients with exceptional skills and results that last. For more information on laser skin resurfacing or to schedule a private consultation at Dr. Mittelman’s office, please contact us today.We serve the entire Southbay and Bay Area including Los Altos, Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Redwood City, Mountain View, San Mateo, San Jose, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale and the surrounding areas.